Protective member for a vehicle

ABSTRACT

A protective member such as a helmet includes an outer layer and an inner layer interconnected by multiple connectors, such as extension springs, under tension along their longitudinal axis. The connectors absorb energy from an impact force by resisting further tension along their longitudinal axis and allow the outer layer and inner layer to move relative to each other. In the helmet application, the head of a user experiences less impact force, reduced change in momentum or position of the head and neck, reduced head and neck loads and reduced amounts of linear and rotational acceleration. The protective member can be used in numerous applications and environments, including for participants in sports, in applications including bumpers, passenger cabins, car seats and beds.

RELATED APPLICATIONS

This is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No. 14/721,158 (“the'158 application”) and claims the benefit of priority date May 26, 2016.The '158 application is a continuation that claims the benefit of thepriority date of U.S. application Ser. No. 13/792,812 (“the '812application”) filed Mar. 11, 2013. The '812 application is acontinuation-in-part and claims the benefit of the priority date of U.S.application Ser. No. 13/227,901 (“the '901 application”) filed Sep. 8,2011; all of which are hereby incorporated by reference.

TECHNICAL FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention generally relates to protective members such ashelmets and more particularly to helmets comprising extension springsthat can absorb, at least in part, an impact force.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Protective members such as helmets have been worn to protect a user fromhead injuries. Protective helmets have been used for many endeavors,including for participants in sports (e.g., football, baseball,lacrosse, racing, skiing), for commercial activities (e.g.,construction) and for military personnel (e.g., pilots, soldiers). Priorart helmets have generally comprised a single layer which is rigidlysecured to the head of a user.

U.S. Pat. No. 4,287,613, entitled “Headgear With Energy Absorbing andSizing Means” disclosed a headgear of the type used by football players.The headgear included a web suspension means comprising looped strapsheld together by a cord that threads through the looped straps and isknotted. The web suspension means performed a sizing function andmaintained the top of the wearer's head out of contact with the upperwall of the helmet shell. The ends of the straps were connected to anencircling band that was fastened at selected locations to the helmetshell.

U.S. Pat. No. 5,035,009, entitled “Protective Helmet and Liner”disclosed a protective helmet having a sheet of sound deadening materialbetween impact force absorbing pad structures disposed on the interiorof the protective helmet.

Recent advances in helmets include U.S. Pat. No. 6,826,509, entitled“System and Method for Measuring the Linear and Rotational Accelerationof a Body Part.” The '509 patent discloses a system using accelerometersto collect, record and process head acceleration data. See FIG. 7 of the'509 patent. See also the related U.S. Pat. No. 7,526,389.

U.S. Pat. No. 7,954,177 entitled “Sports Helmet” disclosed a sportshelmet having ear flaps and jaw flaps.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

A protective member such as a helmet includes an outer layer and aninner layer interconnected by multiple connectors, such as extensionsprings, under tension along their longitudinal axis. The connectorsabsorb energy from an impact force by resisting further tension alongtheir longitudinal axis and allow the outer layer and inner layer tomove relative to each other. In protecting the head of a user, thehelmet reduces the amount of impact force experienced, reduces thechange in momentum or position of the head and neck, reduces head andneck loads and reduces the amount of linear and rotational acceleration.The protective member can be used in numerous applications andenvironments, including for participants in sports, in applicationsincluding bumpers, passenger cabins, car seats and beds.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

For a more complete understanding of the invention and for furtheradvantages thereof, reference is now made to the following Descriptionof the Preferred Embodiments taken in conjunction with the accompanyingDrawings in which:

FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view of a protective helmet according to thepresent invention.

FIGS. 2A-2B depicts the relative orientations of the layers of theprotective helmet of the present invention before, during and after animpact with an object.

FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of a protective helmet according to thepresent invention as used for a football helmet showing the face guardconnected to the outer layer and a chin strap connected to the innerlayer, this embodiment can afford a reduction in the change in momentumor position of the head of a user that would otherwise occur.

FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of a protective helmet according to thepresent invention depicting additional components and features.

FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of a protective helmet according to thepresent invention depicting an adjustor to adjust the connectors.

FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of a protective helmet according to thepresent invention depicting the connectors as extension springs.

FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view of a protective helmet according to thepresent invention as applied to automotive bumpers.

FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of a protective helmet according to thepresent invention as applied to a passenger cabin.

FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view of a protective helmet according to thepresent invention as applied to a car seat.

FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of a protective helmet according tothe present invention as applied to a bed.

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

The following detailed description of the preferred embodiments shouldbe read in view of the FIGS. in which the same reference numerals areused to refer to the same or corresponding components of the novelprotective helmet of the invention.

As shown in FIG. 1, the novel protective helmet 100, includes an outerlayer 102, an inner layer 104 and multiple intermediate connectors 106.The multiple intermediate connectors 106 connect inner layer 104 toouter layer 102. Connectors 106 preferably connect outer layer 102 toinner layer 104 such that each connector 106 is under tension along itslongitudinal axis. The protective helmet 100 can further include otherconnectors 106 that are not under such tension. Each of inner layer 104and outer layer 102 may, in certain embodiments, be referred toindividually as a shell.

As shown in FIGS. 2A-2B, the multiple intermediate connectors 106 aredeformable so as to allow relative movement between inner layer 104 andouter layer 102. Protective helmet 100 in a state of rest may exist asshown in FIG. 2A prior to encountering a force 108.

As shown in FIGS. 2A-2B, force 108 is an external force that is lessthan the amount of force needed to move the head of a user that is in arelatively fixed position. This amount of force may be considered a “lowimpact” external force. Force 108, however, could also be an internalforce exerted by the head of a user. In the case of a low impactexternal force 108, upon the exertion of the external force 108, thefront portion 110 of outer layer 102 is impacted. As a result, the force108 is transferred to outer layer 102 and deforms at least some of theconnectors 106. The distance between the front portion 110 of outerlayer 102 and the front portion 112 of inner layer 104 may be reduced asshown in FIG. 2B. To absorb the force 108, the connectors 106 connectingthe rear portion 114 of inner layer 104 and the rear portion 116 ofouter layer 102 are stretched generally along their longitudinal axis.By resisting further tension along their longitudinal axis, theseconnectors 106 serve to absorb the force 108.

In addition, the connectors 106 connecting the front portion 110 and thefront portion 112 may be compressed. Thus, the connectors 106 absorbforces and/or resist deformation. Preferably, connectors 106 are alsoelastic in that, after an impact, they seek to regain their shape and/ororientation to their original position prior to the exertion of a force108. Preferably, this reversal occurs quickly. After an impact, innerlayer 104 and outer layer 102 return to their original relativeorientation as shown in FIG. 2A.

In one preferred embodiment, all of the connectors 106 are under tensionsuch that they are further stretched as a result of an impact occurringon the opposite side of the helmet 100. The connectors 106 therefore donot serve to absorb forces through compression along their longitudinalaxis; rather, they resist further tension or stretching generally alongtheir longitudinal axis. Thus, connectors 106 absorb energy from animpact force 108 by resisting further tension along their longitudinalaxis, generally on the opposite side of the protective helmet 100 thanthe side of impact. Thus, the connectors 106 allow the outer layer 102and the inner layer 104 to move relative to each other so as to reducethe amount of force from an impact that is transferred to the head of auser and/or the amount of force from the head of a user that istransferred to the environment surrounding protective helmet 100.

An “equal” force 108 is an amount of force needed to equal theresistance-to-change in the position of the head of a user in a fixedposition or to counter the momentum of the head of a user in motion. A“high impact” force 108 is an amount of force needed to change theposition of the head of a user in a fixed position or to exceed themomentum of the head of a user in motion.

Protective helmet 100 reduces the amount of movement of the head andneck of a user that would otherwise occur. Protective helmet 100 canreduce the amount of a force 108 that is transferred to the head andneck of a user. Protective helmet 100 can afford a reduction in theamount of force transferred from the helmet to another object, such asanother helmet. The multiple connectors 106 absorb energy from an impactwith force 108 caused by another object and allow outer layer 102 tomove relative to inner layer 104 so as to reduce the amount of forcefrom said impact that is transferred to the head and neck of a user. Inaddition, the movement of outer layer 102 relative to inner layer 104reduces the amount of movement, including rotational movement, of thehead and neck of a user that would otherwise occur from an impact.Likewise, the force of the head of a user in motion that is transferredto another object is reduced by the relative movement of inner layer 104to outer layer 102.

The afforded reduction in the transfer of force is beneficial inreducing head and neck injuries. In addition, the afforded reduction inrelative movement and/or the change in momentum of the head of the useris beneficial in reducing head and neck injuries. The reduction of theamount of change in position and/or of momentum of the head of the userafforded by the present novel protective helmet 100 is a significantadvantage over prior art helmets. If the head of the user is at restrelative to its surrounding environment, it is considered to have nomomentum. Thus, an impact with an object exerting force 108 may changethe position of the head of the user. If the head of the user is inmotion relative to its surrounding environment (e.g. a football field),then it has momentum. Thus, an impact with an object exerting force 108may change the momentum of the head of a user. Protective helmet 100affords a reduction in the amount of change in position of the head of auser at rest that would otherwise occur as a result of an impact with anobject exerting a force 108. Protective helmet 100 affords a reductionin the amount of a change in momentum that the head of a user in motionwould otherwise experience as a result of an impact with an objectexerting a force 108.

In the event that the outer layer 102 is in a fixed position, such aspossibly for a race car driver, protective helmet 100 would still afforda reduction in the amount of force and or change in momentum that wouldoccur in the absence of protective helmet 100 in view of the movement ofinner layer 104 relative to outer layer 102 and the response ofconnectors 106 to a force 108, whether it be a force external toprotective helmet 100 or an internal force caused by the head of a useror a combination thereof.

Force 108 is not part of the novel protective helmet 100. Force 108could be any object, such as another helmet; or in a commercialenvironment could be a falling object; or in the case of a militaryenvironment could be a bullet or other projectile.

Outer layer 102 may absorb some of the impact of a force 108. Connectors106 may absorb some of the impact of a force 108. Inner layer 104 mayabsorb some of the impact of a force 108. Preferably, the impact energyof force 108 is absorbed by the protective helmet 100 so that no amountof the force is transferred to the head of a user. A “reduction” inforce includes reducing it to zero.

Connectors 106 can be any material that absorbs forces, such as rubberor springs. Connectors may be of different lengths and thicknesses.Connectors 106 can vary along their length as to the type of materialand/or the amount of retention force or force absorption. Connectors 106can have different cross-sectional shapes, e.g., circular. Thecross-section of the connectors 106 can also vary along the length ofthe connector 106. Connectors 106 can be of different lengths.Connectors 106 can be forked or pronged at one or both ends. Connectors106 can be intertwined. Connectors 106 can be tubular. Connectors 106can be of different angles of attachment, including different angles ateach connecting end relative to the inner layer 104 and to the outerlayer 102. For example, connectors 106 can be connected perpendicular tothe surface of outer layer 102 or inner layer 104 or can connect to suchlayers at an angle. Such angles could be measured relative to a tangentline intersecting the point of a connector 106 at which it is connectedto either outer layer 102 or inner layer 104.

As shown in FIG. 6, Connectors 106 can be comprised of extensionsprings. The extension springs oppose further extension. When the layers104 and 102 move apart, the extension spring 106 attempts to bring themcloser together again. Extension springs absorb and store energy andcreate a resistance to a pulling force. They can provide a return force.A protective helmet for protecting the head or body of a user cancomprise an outer layer 102, an inner layer 104 connected to outer layer102 by multiple connectors 106 wherein each connector has a longitudinalaxis and comprises an extension spring being under tension along itslongitudinal axis.

The protective helmet 100 allows the extension springs 106 to absorbenergy from an impact force by resisting further tension along thelongitudinal axis of one or more of the extension springs. Moreover, theconfiguration of protective helmet 100 allows the outer layer 102 andthe inner layer 104 to move relative to each other and reduce the amountof force from said impact that is transferred to the head or body of auser. The extension springs can be attached at a first end 160 to theouter layer 102 and at a second end 162 to the inner layer 104. One ormore of the ends 160 and 162 can be adjustably, removably, pivotally andor rigidly attached. Adjustment of tension can be performed using anyappropriate mechanisms, such as a guitar-string adjustment mechanism.

The springs can have hooks, eyes, or other interface geometry at theends to attach to the layers 102 and 104. The springs can be made of anysuitable material, including music wire, oil tempered chrome silicon, orstainless steel. Spring design features involve considerations of outerdiameter, inner diameter, wire diameter, free length and extendedlength. The free length is the overall length of a spring in theunloaded position. The extended length is the length at full ratedextension. The spring rate is the force per unit spring deflection. Themaximum load is the load at full extension. Preferably, the extensionsprings have initial tension. The measure of the initial tension is theload necessary to overcome the internal force and to begin coilseparation. Thus, unlike a compression spring, which has zero load atzero deflection, an extension spring can have a preload at zerodeflection. This built-in load, called initial tension, can be varied.

Preferably, connectors 106 are extension springs that connect outerlayer 102 to inner layer 104 such that the connectors in a rest positionhave already exceeded their initial tension. The initial load tensioncan be referred to as an initial force, FI or Force 1. Initial loadtension is the amount of tension required to begin coil separation.Thus, in a preferred configuration, connectors 106 are connected suchthat they are loaded under a second force (F2 or Force 2) that exceedsF1. During engagement of the helmet, the connectors 106 preferably donot exceed a force maximum, Force Maximum or FM. Thus, F2 is greaterthan FI but less than FM.

As the helmet 100 receives a force of impact (FI), the impact force isabsorbed by increasing the force on certain springs to be greater thanF2 and preferably does not become so great that it exceeds FM. Theimpact force is absorbed by connector springs 106 generally on theopposite side of helmet 100 than the side that received the impact.Thus, FI is distributed around outer layer 102 and absorbed byconnectors 106 generally disposed on the opposite side of the impactarea. For connectors closest to the impact zone, the load tension mayactually decrease such that the force on those extension springs becomesless than F2 but preferable not less than F1. Inner layer may thereforebe allowed to move or continue moving toward the direction of impactwhich allows for a reduction in head deceleration that would otherwiseoccur. As the impact force is removed, the extension springs regaintheir original orientation such that the springs return to F2. Likewise,outer layer 102 and inner layer 104 return to their originalorientation. Preferably, the springs that absorbed the force go from FMor less back down to F2 and the springs that did not absorb the force gofrom FI or there above back up to F2. Helmet 100 is thus ready to absorbanother impact force.

A drawbar or its equivalent may be included to take effect at or beforethe moment when the impact force that is experienced by a givenconnector reaches FM. Thus, connectors 106 can be or can include one ormore drawbar springs or its equivalent. In some drawbar springs, theload is applied at the ends of long loops that pass through the spring'scenter and are hooked around the opposite end, thus compressing thespring upon loading. Drawbar springs are used in potential overloadsituations and offer a built-in definite stop that will continue tocarry a static load after reaching the maximum extended length. In thepresent invention, the built-in stop could also be accomplished viaother design features including the padding member 126 and or paddingmember 130.

Protective helmet can also be used in other applications. In oneembodiment, the helmet is cylindrical. In this embodiment, theprotective device can be used in numerous applications, including asgoal posts, protective members (e.g. for ski lift poles) or can be usedin body armor. In the body armor embodiment, outer layer 102 and innerlayer 104 are designed to generally conform to the body of a user. Insuch an embodiment, inner layer 104 can be a rigid matrix affixed to thebody of a user. In a commercial application, such as for a motorvehicle, helmet 100 can be used as a bumper wherein outer layer 102surrounds the vehicle or car and inner layer 104 is affixed to thevehicle; thus allowing connectors 106 to absorb impact forces and allowpassengers or cargo to decelerate at a lower rate so as to minimizeinjuries. Helmet 100 can also be used in a motor vehicles such that thepassenger cabin is surrounded by inner layer 104 and outer layer 102 isaffixed to the vehicle. In certain applications, in may be desirable tohave a protective helmet 100 in the bumper application and anotherprotective helmet in the passenger cabin application, which would affordadditional safety to passengers and cargo. In another embodiment, innerlayer can be secured around an axle or other rotatable member and outerlayer 102 can be in direct or indirect ground contact so as to absorbroad impacts.

Connectors 106 can have different shapes, be made of various materialsand can serve numerous functions. In one embodiment, connectors 106 arecylindrical. Connectors 106 can be of solid material or hollow (e.g.,the same material used in resistance tubes). Connectors 106 can also beconfigured to be replaceable. Hollow connectors can include internalconnectors 106 that can in turn be solid or hollow. In one embodiment,the inner connector can be under a different amount of tension than theouter surrounding connector. For example: an inner connector can beunder less or no tension but can have a higher resistance todeformation; whereas, the outer connector can be under greater tension,but can afford a lesser amount of resistance to deformation; or viceversa. Connectors 106 can also serve different functions, including theuse of some connectors 106 to offset the force of gravity on outersurface 102 so as to maintain the optimum relative orientations betweenouter layer 102 and inner layer 104. Connectors 106 can also besubdivided into sets of connectors, each set having its own function,shape, orientation and or type of material. In one embodiment, there arethree sets of connectors, a first set serving to absorb low impactforces, a second set serving to absorb essentially equal forces and athird set serving to absorb high impact forces. In one embodiment,connectors 106 are disposed in lines parallel to the expected angle ofimpact on opposite sides of protective helmet 100, preferably along thesame line as the angle of approach of force 108.

Connectors 106 can serve to reduce the amount of multiple forces 108,including an external force 108 that impacts outer layer 102 and aninternal force 108 caused by the head of a user. In this case, theamount of the external force 108 that is transferred to the head of auser is reduced and the amount of impact force 108 of the head of a userwith protective helmet 100 is reduced. In addition to reducing theamount of transferred forces of impact, protective helmet 100 can reducethe amount and/or the speed of relative change in position of the headof a user of protective helmet 100.

Protective helmet 100 serves also to reduce the amount of rotationalforce exerted by a force 108. Rotational forces can cause head and neckinjuries. Thus, the reduction in the amount of rotational forcetransferred to the head of a user as a result of protective helmet 100is a significant advantage over prior art helmets.

Upon impact of an impact force 108 with the outer layer 102 ofprotective helmet 100, connectors 106 can exert a force on inner layer104 along the same line of impact but on the opposite side of theimpact. The afforded displacement of impact allows for the reduction inthe amount of force 108 transferred to the head of a user and/or allowsfor a reduction in the change of momentum of the head of a user. Theafforded displacement of impact also allows for a decrease in the amountof acceleration or deceleration that the head of a user would otherwiseexperience.

In one preferred embodiment, the connectors 106 are arranged so as toafford the maximum reduction in the force of impact from any givenangle. In this embodiment, the connectors 106 substantially surround thehead of a user. In other words, to the extent that the inner layer 104can be referenced as somewhat spherical, the connectors 106 would beconnected to inner layer 104 along preferably greater than at least 180degrees based upon any plane cross section taken through the center ofthe sphere defined by the inner layer 104.

Preferably, connectors 106 are displaced in at least one completehemisphere of the general sphere of the head of a user. Such spherebeing divided into two equal hemispheres by any plane passing throughits center.

In one preferred embodiment, the connectors 106 are disposed generallysymmetrically. For example, the connectors 106 are generally symmetricalong a plane of symmetry crossing through the center of the spheregenerally formed by the protective helmet 100. In one preferredembodiment, this plane of symmetry is vertical and passes from the frontportion 110 of the outer layer 102 through the center of the sphere tothe rear portion 116 of the outer layer 102 of protective helmet 100.

Preferably, connectors 106 are the only connections between inner layer104 and outer layer 102. In the event that there are other membersconnecting inner layer 104 to outer layer 102, such additional membersare preferably configured so as to not reduce the energy absorptionotherwise afforded by connectors 106.

As shown in FIG. 2A, when the force 108 exerted as shown in FIG. 2B isremoved, the outer layer 102 and the inner layer 104 return to theirorientation as shown in FIG. 2A. Likewise, connectors 106 preferablyreturn to their original length and orientation. The connectors 106preferably allow for repeated cycles of force absorption and recovery.

Preferably, the outer layer 102 is designed so as to ensure that allexternal forces impact outer layer 102 prior to engaging inner layer104. Additional inner and or outer layers can be included with their ownconnectors. In these nested configurations the connectors between layerscan be considered waves of force absorption. These waves can afford thesame amount of force absorption as each other or serve as stepped up orstepped down amounts of force absorption. Such additional layers mayafford greater absorption of rotational forces to thereby minimizeuser-perceived forces, such as neck loads and neck rotation. Each layercan be independently and selectively operable such that one layer isallowed, prohibited, phased, selected or timed to act under varyingpredetermined conditions or real-time conditions.

In some scenarios, it may be preferable for the inner most wave ofconnectors to engage before an outer wave of connectors is engaged orvice versa.

Preferably, connectors 106 are connected directly between inner layer104 and outer layer 102. In certain embodiments, it is preferred thatthe angle of contact of the connectors to the inner layer 104 and outerlayer 102 be approximately 90 degrees.

Preferably for environments involving heat, outer layer 102 can includemultiple openings 118 to allow air circulation, as shown in FIG. 4.Likewise, inner layer 104 can include multiple openings 120.

As shown in FIG. 3, protective helmet 100, when used in certainapplication (e.g., as a football helmet), can include a face guard 122and/or a chin strap 124. Face guard 122 is preferably secured to outerlayer 102. Chin strap 124 is preferably connected to inner layer 104. Inthis embodiment, the head of a user is fixed relative to the inner layer104 not only by means of the shape of the inner layer 104 but also byuse of the chin strap 124. The outer layer 102 and the optional faceguard 122 are allowed to move relative to inner layer 104, including asa result of an impact from a force 108 and/or an internal force causedby the head of a user.

Face guard 122 can be a clear, transparent material. Face guard 122 canafford a reduction in the amount of light (e.g., serve as a sun visor).Face guard 122 can be formed of a unitary, solid material or may includeone or more openings or bars.

Contrary to the present invention, prior art football helmetsundesirably use a chin strap connected to the outermost rigid layer thatfixes the position of the head of the user to the relative position ofthe outermost rigid layer. One advantage of this embodiment of thepresent invention is afforded by the ability to connect a chin strap 124to inner layer 104 to allow for movement of inner layer 104 relative toouter layer 102. In this embodiment, protective helmet 100 can besecured to the head of a user, but the outer layer 102 is not directlysecured to the head of a user and thus can move relative to inner layer104 in response to an impact force 108.

Outer layer 102 can be formed of a single shell of rigid or flexiblematerial or can have multiple layers or zones of the same or differentmaterial. Outer layer 102 can be made of clear, transparent material.

Outer layer 102 can be made of a high force resistance material,including materials used in protective vests, including layers of verystrong fiber (e.g., Kevlar) used to slow and deform a projectile, suchas a bullet. The ability to deform a projectile affords the ability tospread its impact force over a larger portion of the outer layer 102.Protective helmet 100 can absorb the energy from the deformedprojectile, bringing it to a complete stop or at least reducing itsspeed before it can completely penetrate the outer layer 102. Theconnectors 106 can reduce or eliminate the amount of force transferredto the head of a user. Inner layer 104 can also be made of such highforce resistance material.

Inner layer 104 can be formed of a single shell of rigid or flexiblematerial or can have multiple layers or zones of the same or differentmaterial. Inner layer 104 can include a rigid outer surface secured tothe connectors 106 and a soft inner surface conforming to the head of auser. The inner surface of inner layer 104 may also include additionalsizing layers, members or elements so as to afford a customized fit fora given user.

As shown in FIG. 4, outer layer 102 can include a padding member 126 onan inner surface 128. Padding member 126 can be in the form of a layer,matrix of material or a multitude of individual members.

As shown in FIG. 4, inner layer 104 can include a padding member 130 onan outer surface 132. Padding member 130 can be in the form of a layer,matrix of material or a multitude of individual members.

The distances between outer surface 132 of inner layer 104 and innersurface of outer layer 102 can be the same for the entire protectivehelmet 100. These distances can also be different for different regionsof the helmet, including but not limited to, the front portions, rearportions, top portion and side portions.

The distances between the outer layer 102 and 104 and or the connectors106, (including number, size, shape, location, amount of tension andtype of material) can be altered for specific applications. For example,for construction environments, it may be preferable to have a greaterdistance between the outer layer 102 and inner layer 104 at the topregion of protective helmet 100, which such distance is greater thanwould otherwise be desirable for other applications; and further to havestronger connectors 106 along the sides of the protective helmet 100.Moreover, even within a general application, such for football helmets,the distances between the outer layer 102 and inner layer 104 and or theconnectors 106 (including number, size, shape, location, amount oftension and type of material) can be altered for specific players orpositions. For example, it may be preferable to have a greater distancebetween the layers for the back of a helmet used for a quarterback, whomay often be forced to fall backwards.

Padding members 126 and 130 can both be included. Padding members 126and 130 can be oriented to contact to each other at a state of restand/or to contact each other only under some impact force. Paddingmembers 126 and 130 can be oriented to not contact at a state of restand/or to not contact even under some impact force.

Preferably for certain environments, the inner layer 104 and the outerlayer 102 are designed so as to afford an airflow to reduce what wouldotherwise be an undesirably high internal temperature of the protectivehelmet 100. Protective helmet 100 can include a cooling member 134, asshown in FIG. 4.

Preferably for certain environments, the inner layer 104 and the outerlayer 102 are designed so as to afford a higher temperature than wouldotherwise be an undesirably low internal temperature of the protectivehelmet 100. Protective helmet 100 can include a heating member 136.

Preferably, protective helmet 100 can include a communication device138. Communication device 108 can include one directional,bi-directional or multi-directional communications, including voice andvisual communication. Communication device 138 could affordcommunication between a user of protective helmet 100 to any otherperson, such as another player, a coach or a commander.

Communication device 138 can be connected to a display 140. Display 140can display any information or image, whether stored or communicated inreal time.

The materials used for protective helmet 100 may differ depending uponthe specific application. For example, protective helmet 100 as used forfirefighters may require the use of more heat resistant materials thatmay in turn be heavier and or more costly than would be desirable forother applications.

In certain applications, the protective helmet 100 can include one ormore motion sensors or accelerometers 142. Preferably, motion sensor 142is connected to protective helmet 100 to detect movement occurring to orrelative to the rear portions and or to the sides of protective helmet100. Motion sensor 142 can be connected to display 140 and orcommunication device 138.

In certain applications, the protective helmet 100 can include a camera144. Camera 144 can be connected to display 140 and or communicationdevice 138. One or more cameras 144 can be mounted on protective helmet100. Camera 144 can display a rear view to a user via display 140.

As shown in FIG. 5, protective helmet 100 can include one or moreadjustors 146. Adjustor 146 allows for the increase and/or decrease inthe amount of tension of one or more connectors 106. Adjustor 146 mayalso allow for a change in position of one or more connectors 106.Adjustor 146 can be formed of a threaded portion 152 having a channel154 and a moveable portion 156. Moveable portion 156 can be adjusted soas to move a connector 106 through channel 154. Preferably, adjustor 146is flush with the outer surface of outer layer 102.

Motion sensor 142 can be used to detect the speed, size, orientationand/or direction of impact of an incoming force 108. This informationcan be communicated to communication device 138 and/or to display 140. Alight, signal or communication can be generated in advance, during andor after an impact so as to indicate an impending, ongoing or recentimpact. Such a communication can also indicate whether an undesirablethreshold has been exceeded so as to remove a player and/or to inspectprotective helmet 100. Preferably, this information can be communicatedto one or more adjustors 146 that can adjust connectors 106 inaccordance with the information so as to maximize the amount ofprotection afforded by protective helmet 100. For example, if a small,fast moving object (e.g. a bullet) is detected, motion sensor 142 candetect the object communicate the information to the dynamic responsesystem, which may include software, and cause adjustments in theconnectors prior to and/or during impact so as to maximizeforce-absorption and minimize injury. Such a response may includeincreasing the tension on some or all of the connectors. This dynamicimpact response system has many useful applications, including inmilitary applications. Likewise, if a larger, slower moving object isdetected the dynamic response system can respond accordingly, such aspossibly by lessening the tension on some or all of the connectors. Incertain scenarios, it may be desirable to increase the tension on someconnectors and decrease the tension on others. This dynamic impactresponse system can be installed within protective helmet 100 and can bemonitored and/or controlled locally or remotely by a local or remotecomputer. In addition, the impact information can be stored. The impactinformation can include the movement of connectors 106, outer layer 102and inner layer 104. By assessing the information gathered, an angle ofapproach of force 108 may be determined. This angle is useful indetecting the location and source of the force 108, e.g., fordetermining the location of a sniper. The dynamic impact response systemcan include air bags or other explosive devices that can be responsivelydeployable and directionally targeted to an incoming projectile so as tocounter, at least in part, the force of such projectile. The air bagitself can be made of high force resistance material, includingmaterials used in protective vests, including layers of very strongfiber (e.g., Kevlar) used to slow and deform a projectile, such as abullet.

Protective helmet 100 may also include sensors that monitor theacceleration and/or change in momentum and can communicate same to thedynamic impact response system. In this embodiment, protective helmet100 communicates in real time and can be used in various applications,including boxing matches. In the boxing match application, a method formonitoring punch hits and force can be employed wherein the helmetmonitors hits and force, communicates same to a computer, analysis ofthe information is performed and a report is communicated to anon-participant for observation and/or scoring purposes. In addition,the method can include determining whether the observed number and oramount of force experienced meets a certain predetermine value such thatthe match should be discontinued and or to declare a victor. Protectivehelmet 100 can respond in real time to an incoming impact force 108 byusing sensors that communicate to connectors 106 to cause adjustmentsthereto. A power source, preferably one or more batteries, can be usedand secured to protective helmet 100 and operably connected to thevarious preferred components disclosed herein through one or moreelectrical circuits as understood by one of skill in the art.

As shown in FIG. 5, protective helmet 100 may include a right sideportion 148 and a left side portion 150. Right side portion 148 can bedisposed over the right side of the head of a user. Left side portion150 can be disposed over the left side of the head of a user. Forcertain applications, for example, where protective helmet 100 is usedas a batting helmet for baseball, only one of the side portions 148 and150 may be included. The inner layer 104 may include one or moreopenings 158 around the ear of the user.

In one embodiment, outer layer 102 can envelope most of the head of theuser, including the top, sides, front and back of the head of a user;and inner layer 104 can envelope most of the head of the user, includingthe top, sides, front and back of the head of a user. The portion ofinner layer 104 that extends over the face of a user can includemultiple connectors 106 to improve the performance of the protectivehelmet 100 from rear impacts. In this embodiment, the front portions ofboth the outer layer 102 and the inner layer 104 are transparent. Inanother embodiment, one or more of the layers envelope less than most ofthe head of the user.

Prototype Test Results. Certain springs for a prototype were obtainedfrom Lee Spring, Inc. Part Number LE 026B 01 M, Outside Diameter 0.188inches; Wire Diameter 0.026 inches; Maximum Load 4.300 lbs.; Free Length1.000 in; Rate 6.10 lb/in; Maximum Length 1.620 in; Initial Tension0.500 lb; Material MW (music wire); Total Coils 26.4; Number of Coils26.4; Finish ZINC PLATE AND BAKE PER ASTM B633. The outer layer of theprototype was a racing helmet and the inner layer was a child's battinghelmet. The original padding of each was removed. Holes were drilled inthe outer helmet and eye-hooks were screwed into the inner helmet.Extension springs were connected to the eye-hooks, extended and pulledthrough the holes in the outer helmet and secured in place by boltsdisposed perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the springs. A youthlacrosse shoulder pad was used as the padding for the inner helmet. Afootball helmet chin strap was used and was secured to the inner helmet.There were 24 extension springs used, each being under tension alongtheir longitudinal axis. The helmet was tested at Wayne State Universityand outperformed a Riddell Revolution football helmet and a COTS SimpsonNASCAR helmet (model: 8707141 SNS, size: 7¼) in certain categories. Thehelmets were tested using a Hybrid III ATD head and neck mounted to alinear trolley system. The head form was instrumented with three linearaccelerometers, three angular rate sensors, and a 6-axis upper neck loadcell. This instrumentation is capable of providing linear and angularacceleration data, as well as forces and moments in the upper neck ofthe Hybrid III. 8-channel SIMs and (DTS, Seal Beach, Calif.). The datawere subsequently downloaded using TDAS control software. After testing,post-processing of the data was conducted using National InstrumentsDIAdem 2010, National Instruments (Austin, Tex.). Data processingincluded data filtering according to SAE J211-1, calculation ofresultant head acceleration, head angular velocity, neck force, and neckmoment. DIAdem crash analysis and mathematical functions were used tocalculate Severity Index (SI), Head Injury Criterion (HIC), and peakangular acceleration. Five criteria were used to evaluate the severityof each impact: Head Injury Criteria (HIC), Severity Index (SI), PeakAngular Acceleration, Peak Resultant Upper Neck Load, and Peak ResultantUpper Neck Moment. For each of these criteria, as the value increasesthe risk of injury increases. After data processing, results wereorganized by each of the three impact locations and compared by theproducts tested. The prototype had lower values than the NASCAR helmetin the following categories: HIC in two impact locations (i.e. SideImpact Condition and Rear Impact Condition); SI in two of the impactlocations (i.e. Side Impact Condition and Rear Impact Condition); PeakAngular Acceleration in all three impact locations; Upper Neck Load inthe Side Impact Condition; and Upper Neck Moment in all three impactlocations (i.e. Front Impact Condition, Side Impact Condition and RearImpact Condition). In addition, the prototype had lower values than thefootball helmet in the following categories: Peak Angular Accelerationin the front impact location; and Upper Neck Load and Upper Neck Momentin all three impact locations (i.e. Front Impact Condition, Side ImpactCondition and Rear Impact Condition).

FIG. 7 depicts a protective member according to the present invention asapplied to an automotive bumper 200. The bumper 200 includes an outerlayer 202 and an inner layer 204 connected by multiple connectors 206,preferably comprising extension springs. The connectors 206 have alongitudinal axis being under tension along said longitudinal axis so asto absorb energy from an impact force 208 (e.g. from another vehicle orobject) by resisting further tension along said longitudinal axis.During an impact, outer layer 202 and inner layer 204 are allowed tomove relative to each other and reduce the amount of force from saidimpact that is transferred to the vehicle or automobile, thus reducingthe amount impact force reaching the passenger or cargo. An impact tothe front of the bumper 200 will be absorbed at least in part by theconnectors 206 on the back of the bumper 200 and vice versa. In thisway, the force of impact is transferred to the opposite side of theimpact. Moreover, in the scenario in which an automobile is moving,during an impact the inner layer 204 is allowed to continue moving atleast through part of the distance between the inner layer 204 and theouter layer 202 so as to decrease the rate of deceleration experiencedby the passenger or cargo. In the scenario in which an automobile isstationary, during an impact the outer layer 202 is allowed to continuemoving at least through part of the distance between the inner layer 204and the outer layer 202 so as to decrease the amount of forceexperienced by the passenger or cargo. Bumper 200 may include connectors206 in the front and back, or in relatively 360 degrees orientation.Bumper 200 may also be disposed to include connectors 206 only on thesides of the vehicle. A given vehicle can be configured to include oneor more bumpers 200. For example, a front/back bumper can be used with aside/side bumper. In addition, bumper 200 can include nested layers,such as one or more additional outer or inner layers with their ownconnectors 206. Such a configuration can afford additional forceabsorption and also stepped force absorption, i.e. absorption that isgreater than or less than the force absorption afforded by the first oroutermost wave of connectors 206. Bumper 200 can be connected to thedynamic response system which can communicate impacts, including to asystem that adjusts the amount of tension on connectors 206, adjusts thespeed and positioning of the car and or deploys various safetymechanisms, such as air bags. In these embodiments, a force 208 can bemanaged while affording some continued movement of the passenger orcargo to decrease the rate of deceleration experienced. Connectors 206may also be adjustable such that the amount of tension is adjusteddepending upon the speed of the vehicle or the perceived speed of anapproaching force 208. After an impact, inner and outer layerspreferably return to the original relative orientation.

FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of a protective member according to thepresent invention as applied to a passenger cabin 300. Cabin 300includes an outer layer 302 and an inner layer 304 connected by multipleconnectors 306, preferably comprising extension springs. The connectors306 have a longitudinal axis being under tension along said longitudinalaxis so as to absorb energy from an impact force 308 (e.g. from anothervehicle or object) by resisting further tension along their longitudinalaxis. During an impact, outer layer 302 and inner layer 304 are allowedto move relative to each other and reduce the amount of force from saidimpact that is transferred to the cabin, thus reducing the amount impactforce reaching the passenger and or cargo. An impact to the front of thecabin 300 will be absorbed at least in part by the connectors 306 on theback of the cabin 300 and vice versa. In this way, the force of impactis transferred to the opposite side of the impact. Moreover, in thescenario in which an automobile is moving, during an impact the innerlayer 304 is allowed to continue moving at least through part of thedistance between the inner layer 304 and the outer layer 302 so as todecrease the rate of deceleration experienced by the passenger or cargo.In the scenario in which an automobile is stationary, during an impactthe outer layer 302 is allowed to continue moving at least through partof the distance between the inner layer 304 and the outer layer 302 soas to decrease the amount of force experienced by the passenger orcargo. Cabin 300 may include connectors 306 in the front and back, or inrelatively 360 degrees or omni-directional orientations. Thelongitudinal axis of the connectors are preferably oriented such that aline extending from the longitudinal axis would pass through the centerof the Cabin 300. Cabin 300 may also be disposed to include connectors306 only on the sides of the vehicle. Cabin 300 can also includeconnectors in the top or bottom areas so as to absorb forces caused byroad conditions. A given vehicle can be configured to include one ormore cabins 300. For example, a cabin 300 may be used for eachpassenger. In addition, cabin 300 can include nested layers, such as oneor more additional outer or inner layers with their own connectors 306.Such a configuration can afford additional force absorption and alsostepped force absorption, i.e. absorption that is greater than or lessthan the force absorption afforded by the first or outermost wave ofconnectors 306. Cabin 300 can be connected to the dynamic responsesystem which can communicate impacts, including to a system that adjuststhe amount of tension on connectors 306, adjusts the speed andpositioning of the car and or deploys various safety mechanisms, such asair bags. In these embodiments, a force 308 can be managed whileaffording some continued movement of the passenger or cargo to decreasethe rate of deceleration experienced. Connectors 306 may also beadjustable such that the amount of tension is adjusted depending uponthe speed of the vehicle or the perceived speed of an approaching force308 or of perceived road conditions. After an impact, inner and outerlayers preferably return to the original relative orientation. Cabin 300can also be used in other applications such as for an airplane ormotorcycle.

FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view of a protective member according to thepresent invention as applied to a car seat 400. Car seat 400 includes anouter layer 402 and an inner layer 404 connected by multiple connectors406, preferably comprising extension springs. Outer layer 402 and innerlayer 404 preferably envelope the user as much as feasible to affordomni-directional force absorption. The goal of omni-directional forceabsorption can also be accomplished by adjusting the angles of variousconnectors. The outer layer 402 is preferably rigidly secured to theseat of a car such as by traditional locking members connected to theseat frame. Inner layer 404 is thus allowed to move relative to outerlayer 402 and to the car with force absorption being performed by theconnectors 406. The connectors 406 have a longitudinal axis being undertension along said longitudinal axis so as to absorb energy from animpact force 408 (e.g. from another vehicle or object) by resistingfurther tension along their longitudinal axis. A child can be secured toinner layer 404 by straps 410. Outer layer 402 can be secured to a seatof a car by anchors 412. During an impact, outer layer 402 and innerlayer 404 are allowed to move relative to each other and reduce theamount of force from said impact that is transferred to the child, thusreducing the amount impact force reaching the child or infant. An impactto the front of a vehicle containing the car seat 400 will be absorbedat least in part by the connectors 406 on the back of the car seat 400and vice versa. In this way, the force of impact is transferred to theopposite side of the impact. Moreover, in the scenario in which anautomobile is moving forward and encounters a head-on force, duringimpact the inner layer 404 is allowed to continue moving at leastthrough part of the distance between the inner layer 404 and the outerlayer 402 so as to decrease the rate of deceleration experienced by theinfant, child or other passenger. In the scenario in which an automobileis stationary and encounters an impact, during impact the outer layer402 is allowed to continue moving at least through part of the distancebetween the inner layer 404 and the outer layer 402 so as to decreasethe amount of force experienced by the passenger. Car seat 400 mayinclude connectors 406 in the front and back, or in relatively 360degrees or omni-directional orientations. Car seat 400 may also bedisposed to include connectors 406 only on the sides of the car seat.Car seat 400 can also include connectors in the top or bottom areas soas to absorb forces caused by road conditions. In addition, car seat 400can include nested layers, such as one or more additional inner or outerlayers with their own connectors 406. Such a configuration can affordadditional force absorption and also stepped force absorption, i.e.absorption that is greater than or less than the force absorptionafforded by the first or outermost wave of connectors 406. Car seat 400can also include tethers between layers that are not under tension butthat are engaged so as to limit the relative travel of the layers. Carseat 400 can be connected to the dynamic response system which cancommunicate impacts, including to a system that adjusts the tension onconnectors 406 and or deploys various safety mechanisms, such as airbags. In these embodiments, a force 408 can be managed while affordingsome continued movement of the infant or child to decrease the rate ofdeceleration experienced. Connectors 406 may also be adjustable suchthat the amount of tension is adjusted depending upon the speed of thevehicle or the perceived speed of an approaching force 408 or ofperceived road conditions. After an impact, inner and outer layerspreferably return to the original relative orientation.

FIG. 10 is a depiction of a protective member according to the presentinvention as applied to a bed 500. Bed 500 includes one or more forceabsorption members 501 having an outer layer 502, an inner layer 504 andconnectors 506. The connectors 506 have a longitudinal axis and areunder tension along their longitudinal axis. Connectors 506 can beextension springs. Members 501 afford relative movement between outerlayer 502 and inner layer 504. Bed 500 can absorb a force 508 of a user,including as a result of the weight of the body of a person sleeping onbed 500. The multiple members 501 can be connected to a support member(e.g. horizontal bar) 510 that extends through the members 501,preferably through the center of the inner layer 504 rigidly supportingthe member 501 but allowing relative movement of outer layer 502 so asto absorb the weight of a user as a result of further tension beingplaced on the connectors opposite the side of the user, i.e. closer tothe floor. In this configuration, the weight of a user is absorbed bythe connectors on the opposite side of the user, i.e. towards to floor.Thus, the weight of the user causes outer layer 502 to move towards thefloor whereas the inner layer 504 remains relatively fixed in relationto the floor. When the user leaves, outer layer 502 preferably returnsto its original orientation relative to inner layer 504. A preferredconfiguration of bed 500 affords multiple members 501 disposed such thatthe longitudinal axis of the connectors 506 are perpendicular to thelongitudinal axis of the horizontally disposed bar 510. Members 501 arepreferably configured so as to afford various zones of differingfirmness. Upon the user leaving bed 500, the connectors preferablyreturn outer layer 502 to its original orientation relative to innerlayer 504. The cross-sections of the members 501 can be of any shapeincluding circular, oval, square or rectangular and include one or moreconnectors in both the upper and lower hemispheres. Horizontal bar 510preferably affords adjustability to the tension of connectors 506.Multiple horizontally disposed bars 510 can be used, each containing onemore force absorption members 501. Bed 500 can allow adjustment toconnectors 506 depending upon the weight and size of the user and orsleep patterns. The connectors 506 can have varying tension depending onthe zone and can be adjustable and replaceable. Bed 500 can includemultiple layers of members 501, which can appear in a single layer orcan replace one or more of the traditional layers: mattress or boxspring (which comprise compression springs). In addition, bed 500 caninclude nested layers, such as one or more additional inner or outerlayers within one or more of the members 501 that include their ownconnectors 506. Such a configuration can afford additional forceabsorption and also stepped force absorption, i.e. absorption that isgreater than or less than the force absorption afforded by the first oroutermost wave of connectors 506. For example, the outermost wave ofconnectors can be configured to absorb a few pounds of force along aslight distance whereas a first inner wave of connectors can beconfigured to absorb a much greater amount of force over a longerdistance; or vice versa. In one scenario, the first wave is fullyengaged and reaches a force absorption stopping point before the secondwave is engaged. Traditional bedding layers 512 can also be included,such as a cushion or foam layer on top of the bed 500. The number andpositioning of members 501 can be varied based upon the size of the bed,user preference, number of sleepers, the number of connectors,orientation of connectors, the properties of the connectors 506 and theamount of tension on connectors 506. The upper most shape of the outerlayer 502 can be flat or curved. Moreover, one or more horizontal bars510 can be used in parallel, angled and or perpendicular orientation toeach other and or the user. In addition, bed 500 can be coupled to acomputer containing software that receives inputs, such as the heightand weight of a user, that then causes adjustments to the members 501that are tailored to a given user.

Those of skill in the art understand that various changes andmodifications can be made to these preferred embodiments withoutdeparting from the invention disclosed and claimed herein. All suchchanges and modifications are intended to be covered by the followingclaims:

What is claimed is:
 1. A protective member for a vehicle that absorbsenergy from an impact comprising: an outer layer rigidly connected tosaid vehicle; an inner layer forming a passenger cabin and connected tosaid outer layer by multiple connectors wherein each said connector hasa longitudinal axis; each of said connectors being under tension alongsaid longitudinal axis; wherein at least one connector absorbs energyduring an impact by resisting further tension along said longitudinalaxis as said connector is stretched generally along said longitudinalaxis; and wherein said connectors allow said outer layer and said innerlayer to move relative to each other.
 2. The protective member of claim1 further comprising an adjustor coupled to at least one of saidconnectors that allows for the increase and/or decrease in the amount oftension of said connector.
 3. The protective member of claim 2 furthercomprising a dynamic impact response system comprising: a motion sensorto detect information; a communication link between said motion sensorand said adjustor; a monitoring device coupled to said communicationlink to assess said information and instruct said adjustor to increaseor decrease the amount of tension on said connector.
 4. The protectivemember of claim 3 wherein said dynamic impact response system furthercommunicates to said vehicle to adjust the speed of the vehicle.
 5. Theprotective member of claim 1 wherein the inner and outer layers returnto their original relative orientation after an impact.
 6. A protectivemember for a vehicle that absorbs energy from an impact comprising: anouter layer forming a bumper; an inner layer rigidly connected to saidvehicle and connected to said outer layer by multiple connectors whereineach said connector has a longitudinal axis; each of said connectorsbeing under tension along said longitudinal axis; wherein at least oneconnector absorbs energy during an impact by resisting further tensionalong said longitudinal axis as said connector is stretched generallyalong said longitudinal axis; and wherein said connectors allow saidouter layer and said inner layer to move relative to each other.
 7. Theprotective member of claim 6 further comprising an adjustor coupled toat least one of said connectors that allows for the increase and/ordecrease in the amount of tension of said connector.
 8. The protectivemember of claim 7 further comprising a dynamic impact response systemcomprising: a motion sensor to detect information; a communication linkbetween said motion sensor and said adjustor; a monitoring devicecoupled to said communication link to assess said information andinstruct said adjustor to increase or decrease the amount of tension onsaid connector.
 9. The protective member of claim 8 wherein said dynamicimpact response system further communicates to said vehicle to adjustthe speed of the vehicle.
 10. The protective member of claim 6 whereinthe inner and outer layers return to their original relative orientationafter an impact.